Apple Crisp Cheesecake
Apple crisp cheesecake is the perfect dessert that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of apple crisp. This delightful treat is ideal for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. With its thick graham cracker crust, tangy vanilla cheesecake filling, and a generous topping of cinnamon-spiced apples and oatmeal crumble, this dessert stands out as a true indulgence. Drizzle it with salted caramel to take it over the top!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The blend of creamy cheesecake and spiced apples creates an irresistible taste experience.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can create this delicious dessert.
- Visually Stunning: The layered look makes it a showstopper on any dessert table.
- Crowd-Pleasing: This cheesecake is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Tools and Preparation
Getting ready to make your apple crisp cheesecake requires just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and helps achieve great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Tin foil
Importance of Each Tool
- Springform pan: This allows for easy removal of the cheesecake, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without making a mess.
- Electric mixer: Ensures that your cream cheese is whipped smoothly for a creamy texture.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 3 cups graham crumbs
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams) (melted)
For the Apple Filling
- 2 large apples (I recommend Granny Smith or Gala)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
For the Oatmeal Crumble Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (63 grams)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (100 grams)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup quick oats
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (56 grams) (melted)
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 24 ounces full-fat cream cheese (680 grams) (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 grams)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream (120 ml) (room temperature)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
Additional Ingredients
- boiling water (for the water bath)
- salted caramel sauce
How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350F (180C or 160C for fan-forced ovens).
Step 2: Prepare the Springform Pan
Wrap the outside of a 9-inch (23-cm) springform pan in tin foil. Ensure that both bottom and sides are covered by wrapping it at least 3-4 times. Lightly grease the inside of the pan with non-stick cooking spray.
Continue following these steps to create your delicious apple crisp cheesecake!
How to Serve Apple Crisp Cheesecake
Apple crisp cheesecake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to enhance its flavors or make it a centerpiece at your gathering, here are some serving suggestions.
With Salted Caramel Drizzle
- Add a generous drizzle of salted caramel sauce over each slice for an extra touch of sweetness and flavor that complements the apple and cinnamon notes.
Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- Serve warm slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream beautifully contrasts the creamy cheesecake.
Garnish with Whipped Cream
- Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream. This adds a lightness to the rich cheesecake, making every bite enjoyable.
Add Fresh Apples Slices
- Decorate the plate with thinly sliced fresh apples. This not only adds color but also enhances the apple flavor in the dessert.
Serve with Coffee or Tea
- Pairing apple crisp cheesecake with a warm cup of coffee or tea creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for fall gatherings.
Include Nuts for Crunch
- Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, on top for added crunch and depth in texture.
How to Perfect Apple Crisp Cheesecake
Creating the perfect apple crisp cheesecake requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dessert impresses everyone.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding eggs. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks during baking.
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Water Bath Technique: Use a water bath while baking to maintain moisture levels and prevent cracks on the surface of your cheesecake.
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Cool Gradually: Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven after baking. This helps prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Crisp Cheesecake
While apple crisp cheesecake is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie and gouda balances the sweetness of the cheesecake nicely.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the richness of the cheesecake.
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Pumpkin Soup: Serve alongside creamy pumpkin soup for a cozy fall-themed meal that complements both flavors perfectly.
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Savory Crostini: Offer crostini topped with goat cheese and herbs as an appetizer before indulging in dessert; this adds an elegant touch.
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Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts offer crunch and depth while harmonizing with the spiced flavors in the cheesecake.
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Chocolate Fondue: For chocolate lovers, serving chocolate fondue with strawberries or marshmallows creates an indulgent experience alongside the cheesecake.
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Apple Cider: Pairing slices with warm apple cider enhances the overall apple flavor and keeps things festive during fall gatherings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Apple Crisp Cheesecake can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some to watch out for:
- Skipping the water bath: Not using a water bath can result in cracks on the cheesecake surface. Always wrap your springform pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with boiling water.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold cream cheese or eggs can create lumps in the batter. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother mixture.
- Overbaking the cheesecake: Baking too long can dry out your cheesecake. Look for a slight jiggle in the center when it’s done.
- Forgetting to chill: Not allowing your cheesecake to cool properly before slicing can lead to messy servings. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Inconsistent apple pieces: Cutting apples into uneven sizes can affect how they cook. Aim for uniform pieces for consistent flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Container: Keep it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
Freezing Apple Crisp Cheesecake
- Duration: Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Container: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Reheating Apple Crisp Cheesecake
- Oven: Preheat to 325°F (160°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking often.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5-7 minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Apple Crisp Cheesecake:
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can use various apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just ensure they are firm and not overly sweet.
What is the best way to serve Apple Crisp Cheesecake?
Serve chilled with a drizzle of salted caramel and perhaps a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.
How do I make my cheesecake more flavorful?
Incorporate spices such as nutmeg or ginger alongside cinnamon, or add vanilla bean seeds for enhanced flavor depth.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! Apple Crisp Cheesecake keeps well and is perfect for preparing one day ahead of serving.
Final Thoughts
Apple Crisp Cheesecake combines creamy cheesecake with warm cinnamon apples and crunchy oats, making it an irresistible dessert option. It’s versatile too—feel free to customize it by adding nuts or different toppings. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and share it with friends and family!
Apple Crisp Cheesecake
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Apple Crisp Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for any occasion, blending rich, creamy cheesecake with the warm flavors of spiced apples and a crunchy oatmeal crumble. This delightful treat features a thick graham cracker crust and is topped with a luscious layer of cinnamon-spiced apples. Drizzled with salted caramel, it transforms into an indulgent centerpiece that will impress both family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or enjoying a cozy night in, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams) (melted)
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Gala recommended)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (63 grams)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (100 grams)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup quick oats
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (56 grams) (melted)
- 24 ounces full-fat cream cheese (680 grams) (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 grams)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream (120 ml) (room temperature)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- boiling water (for the water bath)
- salted caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by wrapping it in tin foil and greasing the inside.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter for the crust. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- For the apple filling, peel and slice apples, then toss with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugars, cinnamon, cornstarch, vanilla extract, sour cream, and eggs one at a time.
- Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust, add apple filling on top, then cover with remaining batter.
- Bake in a water bath for about 60 minutes or until set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Cool gradually in the oven before refrigerating for at least four hours or overnight.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 130g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
